Arokodare Bags Brace as Ajax Seal Conference League Spot

Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare made a memorable first start for Ajax, scoring twice as the Dutch giants defeated FC Sion 5-3 on Thursday to secure a place in the league phase of the UEFA Conference League.

Ajax completed a 9-5 aggregate victory at the Johan Cruyff ArenA after winning the first leg 4-2 in Switzerland.

Arokodare nearly opened his account shortly after the restart when his effort struck the woodwork, but the 25-year-old eventually found the breakthrough in first-half stoppage time.

The Nigerian striker fired home from a difficult angle to restore Ajax’s lead after Davy Klaassen had cancelled out Sion’s advantage.

Arokodare completed his brace in the 51st minute following a fine attacking move involving Youssef Ouazane and Mika Godts, putting Ajax 4-2 ahead on the night.

He was substituted shortly after the hour mark and received a standing ovation from the home supporters as Marcos Leonardo replaced him.

The two goals took Arokodare’s tally to three goals and two assists in five appearances across all competitions since joining Ajax.

Ajax made a blistering start when Youri Baas scored after just 33 seconds, but Sion responded through Winsley Boteli in the 19th minute.

Boteli later put the visitors ahead before Klaassen restored parity for Ajax.

Arokodare then put the hosts back in front just before half-time before extending their advantage early in the second half.

Substitute Oliver Edvardsen added Ajax’s fifth goal, while Boteli completed his hat-trick in the 90th minute.

The late goal proved inconsequential as Ajax comfortably advanced with a 9-5 aggregate triumph.

The performance provides an encouraging start to Arokodare’s career in Amsterdam, with the Nigerian striker already making a strong impression following his summer move to the Eredivisie club.